ST. JOHN'S, June 24, 2008 - Artists will create and present their work at a new and improved Longshoremen's Protective Union (LSPU) Hall for the enjoyment of Newfoundland and Labrador audiences, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament (St. John's South - Mount Pearl), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie today announced funding for the Resource Centre for the Arts (RCA).
The RCA will receive funding of $500,000 to carry out significant building upgrades to the LSPU Hall. The artist-run building is a cornerstone of the arts community in Newfoundland and Labrador, a showcase for emerging and established artists of all disciplines.
The renovations are divided into three main areas: improvements for artists, audience enhancement, and building refurbishment. Improvements for artists include a rehearsal area, a smaller second space for development work, and improved sound and lighting. Audiences will benefit from the installation of air conditioning, improved seating, and other changes. There will also be a complete upgrade of the building, including new windows and doors.
"The Government of Canada recognizes that the LSPU Hall is a vital element of the cultural landscape in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Hall has been bringing the arts to audiences for more than 30 years," said Minister Verner. "This financial contribution will help the LSPU continue its great work for years to come."
"The LSPU has been a nurturing venue for a generation of established Newfoundland and Labrador performers," said Minister Hearn. "A refurbished LSPU will ensure that many more talented, emerging artists have a platform where the community can come to support them and take delight in watching them hone their craft."
"I am thrilled that our Government is able to support us in these necessary renovations to Resource Centre for the Arts - LSPU Hall," said Sherry White, Chair of the Board for RCA. "This generous investment in our rich and vibrant cultural centre will allow this long-standing organization to grow and continue to stimulate and nurture the performing-arts community within Newfoundland and Labrador. Without the support of our Government, these renovations would be impossible."
The Government of Canada has provided this financial support through the Cultural Spaces Canada program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program contributes to improved physical conditions for artistic creativity and presentation or exhibition. It is designed to improve access for Canadians to the performing, visual, and media arts, as well as to museum collections and heritage exhibitions.
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
Beth Ryan
Communications Advisor
Canadian Heritage, Newfoundland and Labrador
709 772-3076
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
